Nick explores the historical use of lead pipes in plumbing systems, tracing their origins back to Greco-Roman times and their continued prevalence through the centuries despite growing awareness of health risks. He discusses the toxic effects of lead exposure, particularly on children and pregnant women, and emphasises the importance of replacing lead pipes in older properties. Nick shares practical advice on how to identify lead pipes, the process of applying for lead replacement grants from United Utilities, and the benefits of using accredited WaterSafe plumbers for the replacement work. The episode concludes with insights on the potential health benefits and increased property value that come from eliminating lead pipes, encouraging listeners to take action for their own properties.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Historical Use of Lead Pipes: Lead has been used in plumbing systems since Greco-Roman times due to its malleability and perceived resistance to corrosion, but it is actually soluble in water, leading to health risks.

2. Health Risks of Lead Exposure: Lead is a neurotoxin that can cause serious health issues, particularly in children and pregnant women, including developmental problems, learning disabilities, and increased risks of miscarriage and premature birth.

3. Regulations and Replacement: Most developed countries have banned the use of lead pipes for drinking water. Property owners with older homes should consider replacing lead pipes with safer materials like copper or plastic.

4. Lead Replacement Grants: United Utilities offers a grant of up to £550 for replacing lead pipes, significantly reducing the financial burden on property owners. The application process is straightforward and can be completed quickly.

5. Benefits of Replacement: Replacing lead pipes not only improves health safety for tenants but can also increase property value and rental potential, making it a worthwhile investment for property owners.

BEST MOMENTS

"Lead is actually a neurotoxin, which means it can damage the nervous system in the brain and even low levels of lead can be especially harmful to children."

"There's no safe level of lead, so any amount of lead in water can pose a health risk."

"If you think you have lead pipes in your home, it's important to take action."

"We found out you can get a lead replacement grant from United Utilities, and the grant is for £550 towards replacing pipes."

"The benefits are, firstly the health benefits to your tenants or yourself if it's your property."

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HOST BIO

Nick is an award winning property investor, voted Fastest Newcomer 2022 by Premier Property, and is an accredited Retrofit EPC Assessor. He sources and renovates properties for himself as well as other investors. While doing this he has developed his own systems for efficient investment, such as developing his own methods to save time when viewing properties and estimating market values and potential returns, costing out renovations.

He spends three months of the year abroad and while there continues his business with use of modern technology and his proven systems.

Location freedom has always been his "Why" for being a Property Investment and has now reached his ideal of the colder months spent in Thailand and the rest of the time in the UK, all while continuing to run his business

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/